Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through your home, only to discover that it’s actually a warm, comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Apple Pie Oatmeal! This delightful breakfast combines the heartiness of steel-cut oats with the sweet, spiced flavors of apple pie, making it the perfect way to start your day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set your slow cooker to work while you enjoy a few extra minutes of sleep. Trust us, your mornings will never be the same once you indulge in this cozy, delectable treat!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 4 cups water
- 2 apples, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Dice the apples into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size. For best results, use firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Add steel-cut oats, water, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting. Allow the oatmeal to cook for 6 hours, which will help develop deep, rich flavors and create a creamy texture.
- Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture levels.
- After 6 hours, gently stir the oatmeal to incorporate any settled ingredients and break up any potential crust on the bottom.
- If desired, stir in milk to achieve a creamier consistency just before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally garnishing with additional diced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully.
- Prep Ahead: To save time in the morning, you can prepare the dry ingredients the night before. Just mix the oats, spices, and salt in a bowl, and store it in an airtight container.
- Grease Your Slow Cooker: Lightly greasing the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter will help prevent the oatmeal from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
- Resist the Urge to Peek: Once you set your slow cooker, avoid lifting the lid during cooking. This helps maintain the perfect temperature and moisture, ensuring your oatmeal turns out creamy and delicious.
- Customize Your Oatmeal: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, or try adding other spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist.
- Serve with Toppings: Elevate your oatmeal by garnishing with additional diced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
